Kristen Lloyd (2008): Youngest Specialist Vet Surgeon in the Country

Since leaving Santa Maria studying, Kristen Lloyd (Class of 2008) has spent most of her time studying! She finally finished last year, becoming a registered specialist equine surgeon and hospital director at West Coast Veterinary Hospital.

She shares her story with us below.

I went straight from high school into Veterinary School at Murdoch University for six years. I graduated with Honours and then went straight into an internship at the world-renowned Goulburn Valley Equine Hospital in Victoria. I moved to the University of Melbourne to undergo my three-year surgery residency following my time there. I completed a dual master’s during this time and published multiple papers associated with my thesis dissertation.

After completing that, I moved home to Western Australia to work and study for my Fellowship exams, which I passed, becoming the youngest specialist veterinary surgeon in the country!

It’s been a very long road but completely worth it.

One of the highlights has been the professional connections I’ve made. I have colleagues I have become friends with worldwide and who I call on frequently! They come in very handy while travelling.

As a boarder at Santa Maria, one of my fondest memories was definitely downtime with the girls! And sport; I played hockey, cricket, tennis, softball, basketball and athletics – you name it! One of the girls I met at school is still one of my closest friends.

Thank you for sharing your story with us, Kristen!

From the President – May 2025

Warm Easter wishes, community spirit, and a heartfelt message from Mary Bairstow as she prepares to reunite with her daughters abroad. Catch up on the latest from the Old Girls’ Association and see who’s stepping in for the June update!

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